The Italy forward Antonio Cassano has caused controversy by saying he hopes there are no homosexual players on the team at Euro 2012, and he then used a derogatory term to describe gays.

When asked about media reports that there were two metrosexual players and two homosexual players in the Italy squad, the Milan forward said: "What's a metrosexual?" before adding: "Queers in the national team? That's their business. But I hope not."

Cassano later issued an apology through the Italian state news agency ANSA. "I am sincerely sorry that my comments have caused controversy and protests among gay groups. Homophobia is not a point of view that I share. I didn't want to offend anyone and I absolutely don't want to put a person's sexual freedom under discussion.

"I only said that it was a problem which was nothing to do with me and I don't let myself express judgments on other people's choices, which should all be respected."

Earlier this year Cassano's Italy team-mate Antonio Di Natale said that it would be difficult for any player to come out whereas the national team coach, Cesare Prandelli, has been supportive of gay footballers.

Cassano on Tuesday also discussed the possibility of his Milan team-mate Thiago Silva joining Paris St-German. He said: "To lose Thiago is hard, hard. It is impossible to replace him. Without Thiago, it is 50% of our team. It's a crime to lose Thiago."